One interview question really stood out for me though and I found the question to be very telling of the office's culture. I was asked: What is the first thing you do in the morning when you get to work?

I began by answering that I turn on my computer, start pulling the files diarized for that day, perform tasks on those files that I know need to be done, and then give the files to the lawyer so that he can give instructions to me on any additional work that he wants done. I thought that was a good answer as it showed that I take the initiative, but the office manager wasn't satisfied. What else do I do first thing in the morning, I was asked. Somewhat puzzled by the question, I added that I check my messages and take a look at the lawyer's schedule for that particular day so that I am aware which clients are coming into the office that day. This time, the office manager clarified the question by asking: What else do I do FOR THE LAWYER first thing in the morning? Still puzzled, I was at a loss for what to add. Incredulously the office manager then said: "So, you don't bring him a cup of coffee first thing in the morning?" I'm pretty sure that I had a hard time hiding what I was thinking (which was, he can get his own d**n coffee). I found the question to be insulting. After all, I didn't apply for a waitressing job. I have exceptionally high legal skills but the office manager wasn't interested in that. No! What was important was whether or not I bring a cup of coffee to the lawyer first thing in the morning. I decided then and there that this is a law firm that I am NOT interested in working for.